For Master Gardeners

What are the Master Gardener Volunteer Service Requirements?

To obtain certification as a Penn State Master Gardener, each trainee must complete the following requirements within a period of one (1) year from successful completion of basic training:

Pass the final examination administered on-site with a minimum score of 80%.

Complete any county-required volunteer orientation activities.

Fulfill the 50-hour volunteer service commitment.

Upon successful completion, the trainee is awarded a Penn State Master Gardener certificate. Master Gardener certification is restrictive in that it is valid only while the individual is participating in the Penn State Master Gardener program. Certification in subsequent years is issued only to an individual who makes a commitment for participation in the program for the coming year as outlined below. When an individual ceases active participation in the program, his or her designation as a Penn State Master Gardener becomes void.